Geoffrey Johnston Fined For Failing To Attend Inquiry

Offence:

GAR 86(e): Mr. Geoffrey Johnston failed to attend an inquiry on Wednesday, 23 July 2014, when directed to do so by the Stewards.

Report:

The Stewards of Greyhound Racing Victoria proposed to open an inquiry into certain conduct of Mr. Geoffrey Johnston. The inquiry was called for on Wednesday, 23 July 2014.

Stewards charged Mr. Johnston with a breach of GAR86 (e) which provides that being an owner, trainer attendant or person having official duties in relation to greyhound racing, who refuses or fails to attend or give evidence or produce a document or other thing at an inquiry held pursuant to these Rules when directed by the Controlling Body, Stewards or the committee of a club to do so, commits an offence.

Under Rule 47.1 of the Greyhound Racing Victoria Local Rules a breach of GAR86 (e) constitutes a Serious Offence. As a result, on Monday, 25 August 2014 this matter was heard before the Racing Appeals and Disciplinary Board in the first instance under Greyhound Local Racing Rule 47.3 and Sections 83C(b) and 83M(1) of the Racing Act.

Mr. Johnston failed to attend the hearing. Mr. Fish advised that no communication had been received from Mr. Johnston.

Mr. Glenn Fish (GRV Chief Steward) represented the Stewards Panel.

After hearing all the evidence tendered the RADB determined that Mr. Geoffrey Johnston was guilty of failing to attend an Inquiry on Wednesday, 23 July 2014, when directed to do so by the Stewards.

He was fined the sum of $250.

In assessing penalty, the Board took into account all the evidence and submissions, including the following matters:

(a) Mr. Johnston’s non-attendance before the RADB;

(b) Prior penalties for a similar charges under GAR86 (e); and

(c) This was Mr. Johnston’s first offence, although he had not been a registered person for a long period.